This application relates to methods and apparatus for powering microcontrollers (104), in particular for powering microcontrollers of a personal care product, such as a shaver product (107). The microcontroller is arranged such that a first output port (206-1) of a plurality of output ports of the microcontroller receives, in use, an AC waveform. Each output port has an associated high-side switch (207) electrically connected between the output port and a high-side DC voltage rail and an associated low-side switch (208) electrically connected between the output port and a low-side DC voltage rail. A processing module (202) of the microcontroller is configured to monitor a phase of the AC waveform and to control switching of the associated high-side and low-side switches of the first output port based on the phase of the AC waveform so as to provide a rectified voltage between the high-side DC voltage rail and the low-side voltage rail for powering the processing module. The processing module (202) also controls switching of the associated switches of at least a further output port to output a control signal for controlling at least one aspect of operation of a host device. The processing module is further configured to maintain the associated high-side switch of the first output port in a turned-off state when a monitored voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port is between zero and a monitored voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail, and to maintain the associated high-side switch of the first output port in a turned-on state when the monitored voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port is greater than the monitored voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A microcontroller apparatus comprising: a microcontroller circuit comprising a plurality of output ports, each output port having an associated high-side switch electrically connected between the output port and a high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) and an associated low-side switch electrically connected between the output port and a low-side DC voltage rail (VSS); a processing module configured to be powered, in use, by the high-side DC voltage rail and the low-side DC voltage rail; and a capacitance electrically connected to the high-side DC voltage rail; wherein at least one output port of said plurality of output ports is configured to output a control signal to control at least one aspect of operation of a host device and the processing module is configured to control switching of the associated high-side switch and low-side switch of the at least one output port so as to output said control signal; and wherein said plurality of output ports further comprises a first output port configured to receive, in use, an AC waveform and the processing module is configured to monitor a phase of the AC waveform and to control switching of the associated high-side switch and low-side switch of the first output port based on the phase of the AC waveform so as to provide a rectified voltage between the high-side DC voltage rail and the low-side DC voltage rail; characterized in that the processing module is configured to: monitor a voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port and a voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail (VDD); maintain the associated high-side switch of the first output port in a turned-off state when the monitored voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port is between zero and the monitored voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail; and maintain the associated high-side switch of the first output port in a turned-on state when the monitored voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port is greater than the monitored voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail.
A microcontroller apparatus includes a microcontroller circuit with multiple output ports, each having a high-side switch connected to a high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) and a low-side switch connected to a low-side DC voltage rail (VSS). The processing module, powered by VDD and VSS, controls these switches to generate control signals for a host device. One output port receives an AC waveform, and the processing module monitors its phase to control the associated switches, rectifying the AC waveform into a DC voltage between VDD and VSS. The processing module also monitors the AC waveform voltage and the VDD voltage. When the AC waveform voltage is between zero and VDD, the high-side switch remains off. When the AC waveform voltage exceeds VDD, the high-side switch turns on, ensuring efficient rectification. This design integrates AC waveform rectification and control signal generation within a single microcontroller, reducing external components and improving system efficiency. The apparatus is useful in applications requiring both power management and control signal generation, such as industrial automation or power supply systems.
2. The microcontroller apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said plurality of output ports further comprises a second output port configured to receive, in use, the AC waveform, the microcontroller apparatus being configured to receive the AC waveform across said first output port and said second output port; wherein the processing module is further configured to: control switching of the associated high-side switch and low-side switch of the second output port based on the phase of the AC waveform so as to provide said rectified voltage; maintain the associated low-side switch of the second output port in a turned-off state when the monitored voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port is between zero and the monitored voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail; and maintain the associated low-side switch of the second output port in a turned-on state when the monitored voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port is greater than the monitored voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail.
A microcontroller apparatus is designed to manage power conversion in AC-to-DC systems, particularly for applications requiring precise control of rectified voltage. The apparatus includes multiple output ports, each with high-side and low-side switches, to interface with an AC waveform and a DC voltage rail. The apparatus monitors the AC waveform's phase and voltage levels to regulate switching operations. A key feature involves a second output port that receives the AC waveform alongside a first output port, allowing the apparatus to compare the AC waveform's voltage against the high-side DC rail voltage. The processing module controls the high-side and low-side switches of the second output port based on this comparison. When the AC waveform voltage is between zero and the DC rail voltage, the low-side switch remains off, preventing current flow. When the AC waveform voltage exceeds the DC rail voltage, the low-side switch turns on, enabling current flow to the DC rail. This switching strategy ensures efficient rectification while minimizing power loss and voltage fluctuations. The apparatus is particularly useful in power management systems where precise voltage regulation and energy efficiency are critical.
3. The microcontroller apparatus as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the capacitance is electrically connected between the high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) and the low-side DC voltage rail (VSS).
A microcontroller apparatus includes a capacitance element electrically connected between a high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) and a low-side DC voltage rail (VSS). This configuration stabilizes the power supply by reducing voltage fluctuations and noise, ensuring reliable operation of the microcontroller. The capacitance acts as a filter, smoothing transient currents and maintaining stable voltage levels during switching operations or load changes. The apparatus may also include a voltage regulator to further condition the power supply, ensuring consistent performance under varying load conditions. The capacitance is selected based on the required filtering characteristics and the microcontroller's power consumption profile. This design is particularly useful in applications where power supply stability is critical, such as in embedded systems, automotive electronics, or industrial control systems. The capacitance connection between VDD and VSS provides a direct path for high-frequency noise to be shunted, improving signal integrity and reducing electromagnetic interference. The overall system ensures efficient power delivery while minimizing voltage ripple and transient disturbances.
4. The microcontroller apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the capacitance is electrically connected in series with a further capacitance between the high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) and the low-side DC voltage rail (VSS), wherein the AC waveform is applied between the first output port and a node between the capacitance and the further capacitance.
This invention relates to a microcontroller apparatus designed to generate and measure AC waveforms for applications such as capacitive sensing or signal processing. The apparatus includes a microcontroller with an output port capable of generating an AC waveform, a capacitance connected to this port, and a further capacitance connected in series with the first capacitance between a high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) and a low-side DC voltage rail (VSS). The AC waveform is applied between the output port and a node located between the two capacitances. This configuration allows the microcontroller to drive or sense AC signals across the capacitive network, enabling precise control and measurement of electrical properties. The series connection of the capacitances forms a voltage divider, which can be used to scale or isolate the AC signal relative to the DC rails. This setup is particularly useful in applications requiring accurate signal generation or sensing while maintaining stable DC voltage levels. The apparatus may also include additional circuitry for signal conditioning, such as amplification or filtering, to enhance performance in noise-sensitive environments. The invention addresses the need for compact, integrated solutions that combine AC signal processing with microcontroller functionality, reducing the need for external components and improving system efficiency.
5. The microcontroller apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the processing module is configured to monitor the phase of the AC waveform by monitoring a voltage ripple on the high-side DC voltage rail (VDD).
A microcontroller apparatus is designed to monitor the phase of an alternating current (AC) waveform by analyzing voltage ripple on a high-side direct current (DC) voltage rail (VDD). The apparatus includes a processing module that detects and processes the voltage ripple to determine the phase of the AC waveform. This is particularly useful in power conversion systems where accurate phase detection is critical for efficient operation. The processing module may also include additional functionality, such as generating control signals for power switches or regulating power output based on the detected phase. The apparatus may further include a power conversion stage that converts AC input to DC output, with the processing module ensuring synchronization between the AC input and the DC output. By monitoring the voltage ripple on the high-side DC rail, the system can dynamically adjust to changes in the AC waveform, improving stability and efficiency in power delivery. This approach eliminates the need for external phase detection circuits, reducing complexity and cost while maintaining high accuracy in phase monitoring. The apparatus is suitable for applications in power supplies, motor drives, and other systems requiring precise AC waveform synchronization.
6. The microcontroller apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the processing module is configured to monitor the phase of the AC waveform by monitoring for a zero-crossing of current or voltage at a monitoring port of the microcontroller apparatus, the monitoring port being configured to receive the AC waveform.
This invention relates to a microcontroller apparatus designed for monitoring the phase of an alternating current (AC) waveform. The apparatus includes a processing module that detects the phase by identifying zero-crossing points in either the current or voltage of the AC waveform. These zero-crossings occur when the waveform transitions from positive to negative or vice versa, providing a reference for phase synchronization. The monitoring port of the microcontroller receives the AC waveform, allowing the processing module to analyze the signal and determine phase information. This capability is useful in applications requiring precise timing, such as power factor correction, motor control, or grid synchronization. The apparatus may also include additional features, such as signal conditioning or filtering, to enhance zero-crossing detection accuracy. By monitoring zero-crossings, the microcontroller can synchronize operations with the AC waveform, improving efficiency and reliability in power management systems. The invention addresses the need for accurate phase detection in AC systems, which is critical for maintaining synchronization in electrical grids and industrial applications.
7. The microcontroller apparatus as claimed in claim 6 , wherein the monitoring port is said first output port and wherein the processing module is configured to control the associated high side switch and the low-side switch of the first output port to allow for monitoring of the first output port for a zero-crossing of the AC waveform during a monitoring period in which a zero-crossing is expected.
This invention relates to a microcontroller apparatus designed for monitoring and controlling power output ports, particularly in systems handling alternating current (AC) waveforms. The apparatus includes a monitoring port and a processing module that manages high-side and low-side switches associated with an output port. The key function is to enable zero-crossing detection of the AC waveform during a predefined monitoring period when a zero-crossing is anticipated. By controlling the high-side and low-side switches, the processing module ensures accurate monitoring of the output port to detect these zero-crossing events, which are critical for synchronization in power conversion, motor control, and other AC applications. The apparatus may be part of a larger system where multiple output ports are managed, and the monitoring port is specifically designated to facilitate zero-crossing detection without disrupting normal operation. This design improves efficiency and reliability in AC power management by ensuring precise timing for switching operations.
8. The microcontroller apparatus as claimed in a claim 1 , wherein the processing module is configured to implement a phase-locked-loop which is locked to the phase of the AC waveform to generate at least one switch control signal for controlling the associated high-side switch and low-side switch of the first output port.
This invention relates to a microcontroller apparatus designed for power conversion applications, specifically for managing switching operations in power converters that interface with alternating current (AC) waveforms. The apparatus addresses the challenge of efficiently controlling high-side and low-side switches in power conversion circuits to ensure precise synchronization with the AC waveform phase, which is critical for maintaining stability and minimizing power losses. The microcontroller includes a processing module that implements a phase-locked-loop (PLL) circuit. The PLL is locked to the phase of the AC waveform, enabling it to generate at least one switch control signal. This signal is used to control the switching operations of the high-side and low-side switches connected to a first output port of the apparatus. The PLL ensures that the switching transitions are synchronized with the AC waveform, which is essential for applications such as power factor correction, motor control, or grid-tied inverters where phase alignment is critical. The processing module may also include additional functionality, such as digital signal processing (DSP) capabilities, to further refine the control signals based on feedback from the power converter. The apparatus is designed to operate in environments where precise timing and phase alignment are required, ensuring efficient power conversion with minimal distortion and harmonic generation. The invention improves the reliability and performance of power conversion systems by providing a microcontroller that can dynamically adapt to variations in the AC waveform.
9. The microcontroller apparatus as claimed in a claim 1 , wherein said high-side switches and said low-side switches comprise MOSFET switches with body diodes.
A microcontroller apparatus includes a power management system with high-side and low-side switches configured to control power delivery to a load. The high-side switches are connected between a power supply and the load, while the low-side switches are connected between the load and ground. These switches are implemented using MOSFET transistors, each incorporating body diodes. The body diodes allow current to flow in a reverse direction when the MOSFETs are off, providing a path for inductive current or transient voltage spikes. This design ensures protection against voltage spikes and enables efficient power switching with minimal power dissipation. The MOSFET switches are controlled by the microcontroller to regulate power delivery, ensuring stable operation and protection of connected components. The inclusion of body diodes enhances reliability by preventing damage from back-EMF or transient events, making the system suitable for applications requiring robust power management.
10. The microcontroller apparatus as claimed in a claim 1 , further comprising a power module for generating said AC waveform, wherein said power module comprises at least one of a wireless power receiver and an energy harvesting module for generating an AC waveform from movement of an element of a host product.
This invention relates to a microcontroller apparatus designed for low-power or energy-harvesting applications, particularly in host products where traditional power sources are impractical. The apparatus addresses the challenge of powering microcontrollers in environments where batteries are unavailable or inefficient, such as in IoT devices, wearables, or industrial sensors. The core innovation involves a power module integrated into the microcontroller, which generates an AC waveform to supply power. This power module can include a wireless power receiver, allowing the device to draw energy from external electromagnetic fields, or an energy harvesting module that converts mechanical movement of a host product element (e.g., vibrations, rotations) into electrical energy. By integrating these power sources directly into the microcontroller, the apparatus ensures continuous operation without reliance on external power supplies or frequent battery replacements. The design is particularly suited for applications requiring long-term, maintenance-free operation in dynamic or remote environments. The AC waveform generated by the power module is then conditioned and regulated to provide stable power to the microcontroller's circuitry, enabling reliable functionality under varying energy availability conditions.
11. An electronic device comprising a microcontroller apparatus as claimed in claim 1 .
An electronic device includes a microcontroller apparatus designed to manage and control electronic operations. The microcontroller apparatus features a processing unit configured to execute instructions, a memory unit for storing data and instructions, and an input/output interface for communicating with external components. The processing unit is capable of performing arithmetic and logical operations, while the memory unit includes both volatile and non-volatile storage to retain data during and after power cycles. The input/output interface allows the microcontroller to interact with sensors, actuators, and other peripheral devices, enabling real-time data processing and control. The device may be used in applications such as industrial automation, consumer electronics, or embedded systems, where precise and efficient control of electronic functions is required. The microcontroller apparatus ensures reliable operation by integrating error detection and correction mechanisms, power management features, and secure communication protocols. This design enhances performance, reduces power consumption, and improves system stability, addressing challenges in modern electronic systems where compact, energy-efficient, and high-performance control solutions are needed.
12. The electronic device as claimed in claim 11 , wherein the high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) of the microcontroller apparatus is electrically connected to an external DC voltage rail configured to power at least one module external to the microcontroller apparatus.
This invention relates to a microcontroller apparatus with an improved power distribution system. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and flexible power management in electronic devices, particularly where a microcontroller must supply power to external modules while maintaining stable operation. The microcontroller apparatus includes a high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) that is electrically connected to an external DC voltage rail. This external rail is configured to power at least one module that is external to the microcontroller apparatus. The connection allows the microcontroller to distribute power to other components in the system, ensuring that external modules receive the necessary voltage for operation. The design ensures that the microcontroller can act as a central power hub, reducing the need for separate power supplies and simplifying system architecture. The apparatus may also include a low-side DC voltage rail (VSS) connected to a ground reference, ensuring proper voltage regulation and stability. The microcontroller may further incorporate a voltage regulator to maintain consistent power delivery to both internal and external components. This configuration enhances reliability and efficiency in power distribution, making the system suitable for applications requiring compact and integrated power management solutions.
13. A shaver product comprising at least one microcontroller apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the microcontroller apparatus is located on or within a cutting element of the shaver product.
This invention relates to a shaver product incorporating a microcontroller apparatus integrated into or on a cutting element. The shaver product is designed to address the need for improved precision and control in electric shaving devices. The microcontroller apparatus, which may include a processor, memory, and communication interfaces, is embedded within or attached to the cutting element, such as a blade or foil, to enable advanced functionalities. These functionalities may include real-time monitoring of shaving conditions, adaptive adjustments to cutting parameters, and data collection for performance optimization. The microcontroller can process sensor inputs, such as blade load, skin contact, or vibration levels, to dynamically adjust motor speed, blade angle, or other operational settings. Additionally, the microcontroller may communicate with external devices, such as smartphones or cloud servers, to provide usage analytics, maintenance alerts, or personalized shaving recommendations. By integrating the microcontroller directly into the cutting element, the shaver achieves enhanced responsiveness and efficiency, improving the overall shaving experience. The invention aims to overcome limitations in conventional shavers that lack real-time feedback and adaptive control mechanisms.
14. The shaver product as claimed in claim 13 , wherein the microcontroller apparatus is configured to sense conditions at the cutting element in use and to adjust at least one aspect of operation of the shaver product in response to the sensed conditions.
This invention relates to an electric shaver with an adaptive control system. The shaver includes a cutting element for removing hair and a microcontroller apparatus that monitors conditions at the cutting element during use. The microcontroller is configured to detect various operational parameters, such as skin contact, hair density, or cutting resistance, and dynamically adjust aspects of the shaver's operation in response. Adjustments may include modifying motor speed, vibration frequency, or cutting element movement to optimize performance and user comfort. The system may also incorporate feedback mechanisms to refine adjustments over time. This adaptive control aims to improve shaving efficiency, reduce skin irritation, and enhance overall user experience by tailoring the shaver's behavior to real-time conditions. The invention addresses the problem of static shaver settings that may not adapt to varying skin and hair conditions, leading to suboptimal performance or discomfort.
15. A method of powering a microcontroller apparatus having a plurality of output ports, each output port having an associated high-side switch electrically connected between the output port and a high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) and an associated low-side switch electrically connected between the output port and a low-side DC voltage rail (VSS), wherein the microcontroller apparatus further comprises a processing module and a capacitance electrically connected to the high-side DC voltage rail, the method comprising: controlling switching of the associated high-side switch and the associated low-side switch of at least one output port of said plurality of output ports to output a control signal for controlling at least one aspect of operation of a host device; powering the processing module by the high-side DC voltage rail and the low-side voltage rail; receiving an AC waveform at a first output port of said plurality of output ports; monitoring a phase of the AC waveform at the first output port; and controlling switching of the associated high-side switch and the associated low-side switch of the first output port based on the phase of the AC waveform so as to provide a rectified voltage between the high-side DC voltage rail and the low-side voltage rail; characterized in that the method further comprises: monitoring a voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port and a voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail (VDD); maintaining the associated high-side switch of the first output port in a turned-off state when the monitored voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port is between zero and the monitored voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail; and maintaining the associated high-side switch of the first output port in a turned-on state when the monitored voltage of the AC waveform at the first output port is greater than the monitored voltage at the high-side DC voltage rail.
A microcontroller apparatus with multiple output ports is used to control a host device by switching high-side and low-side switches connected to each port. The apparatus includes a processing module powered by a high-side DC voltage rail (VDD) and a low-side DC voltage rail (VSS), along with a capacitance connected to the high-side rail. The method involves controlling the switches to output control signals for the host device. Additionally, the apparatus receives an AC waveform at one of the output ports, monitors its phase, and controls the associated switches to rectify the AC waveform, providing a rectified voltage between the high-side and low-side rails. The method further includes monitoring the AC waveform voltage and the high-side rail voltage. When the AC waveform voltage is between zero and the high-side rail voltage, the high-side switch remains off. When the AC waveform voltage exceeds the high-side rail voltage, the high-side switch turns on. This ensures efficient rectification and power management for the microcontroller. The technique optimizes power delivery while maintaining control over the host device.
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December 18, 2018
April 5, 2022
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